Why Site Surveys Matter Before You Build

Survey First, Build Second: Why a Property Survey is a Must-Have

Look, we love concrete — but even the best foundation in the world won’t save you if your build is in the wrong place. That’s why we’re big believers in this simple rule: get your site surveyed before you build.

Whether you’re putting up a new home, a shed, a commercial space or even just a retaining wall — a professional land survey is essential. It sets the stage for everything that comes next. Without it, you’re building blind.

What Is a Property Survey, Anyway?

A survey maps out your property’s:

• Legal boundaries
• Levels (contours, slopes, fall)
• Key features (drainage, driveways, fences, easements)
• Building platform and set-out points

In other words: it tells us exactly where and how we can build — accurately, legally and safely.

Why It Matters (Especially for Foundations)

When we come in to set out a concrete foundation, accuracy is everything. The entire structure of your home or building depends on that foundation being in the right place and at the right level. A good survey gives us that confidence.

Without a proper survey:

• Your foundation might be built over a boundary (big legal trouble)
• You could violate council setbacks or encroach on a neighbour’s land
• You risk drainage issues, uneven levels, and massive rework later
• Your building consent might be delayed (or declined altogether)

With a proper survey:

• Your plans line up perfectly with the land
• Everyone on-site works off the same accurate info
• You avoid legal issues, build delays, and budget blowouts
• Foundations are set out fast, accurately, and stress-free

How Much Does a Survey Cost?

Surveys can start at as little as $1,000, depending on the complexity of the site, location, and the level of detail needed, it may cost more.

Yes, that’s an extra line item. But compare that to the cost of:

• Re-pouring a foundation
• Reworking drainage
• Boundary disputes with neighbours
• Or being told by council to stop work…

Suddenly, that survey looks like a bargain.

When Should You Book One?

Ideally: before you start any design work. This helps your architect or designer plan the build around real-world site conditions. But if you’re further along, we recommend a pre-foundation set-out survey at the very least — so we can build your slab in the right spot, at the right level, with confidence.

The Rapid Way: Survey-Smart Building

At Rapid Slabs & Precast, we work with surveyors on nearly every project. It saves time, cuts down on errors, and keeps things moving. We also work with designers and engineers to make sure the foundation design matches the land — not just the plan.

If you’re not sure where to start, we can recommend trusted local surveyors or work with whoever you’ve already got on board.

Get the Survey.

Before you break ground, get the land properly surveyed. It’s one of the smartest investments you can make on your build — and it sets the foundation (literally) for everything else to run smoothly.

Thinking of building? Start with the right people.

Contact us at Rapid Slabs & Precast — we’ll make sure your site’s prepped, set out, and built on solid ground from day one.